An Owasso family finds peace at the Tulsa County Courthouse today after years of tearful court dates come to an end.
The woman, responsible for killing Cameron Hood, a beloved son and 2 Works for you editor and photojournalist, was acquitted of all charges related to a deadly car crash.
It's been a long road for the Hood family, dating back to Dec. 5, 2013. Cameron was headed to a college class that afternoon when his life was cut short. And now, almost 4 years later, the family is finally able to put their son's court case to rest.
What may seem like an ordinary intersection in Owasso, means much more to Rhonda Hood. For her, the intersection where her son was killed, is where she feels closest to him.
"There's no wrong way to grieve, you have to grieve how it's best for you," Rhonda, Cameron's mother said.
Although pained by tragedy, the intersection near north 129th east avenue and east 106th street north holds something beyond this world. It's where Cameron Hood took his last breath, and was called home to watch over the ones he loves.
"I decided to focus on my blessings, and not the sad parts or bad parts of life," Rhonda said.
On a fateful day in December, Shae Lynn McClain blew through a stop sign with a child in the back seat, striking Cameron's car, killing him almost instantly. She faced charges of child neglect and first degree vehicular manslaughter, but pleaded not guilty by reason of insanity.
Nearly 4 years later, she was acquitted after several mental health evaluations, and sentenced to 45 days in a state mental health facility. Her release from the facility comes with several conditions as well. McClain is to give up her driver's license forever, take weekly blood tests to ensure she is taking proper medication, see a psychiatrist weekly and continue outpatient therapy sessions suggested by the forensic's center.
Although the Hood family is broken by one woman's actions, they choose forgiveness over hate
"Ask God to bless them every day, and eventually you'll lose the anger and hatred toward them," Rhonda said. "And it worked."
With that, Cameron's legacy lives on.
"He blessed everybody with his life," Rhonda said. "He was just always upbeat and happy."
From a smiling face greeting co-workers at Channel 2, to a best friend who knew how to get down on the dance floor. If a smile is what you needed, Cameron Hood had plenty.
And although he's gone, it's easy to see his spirit. He lives in those who love him, who support him, and who choose to laugh, because Cameron wouldn't want it any other way.
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